Is Austria cashless?
Mostly cashless#49 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #30 of 45 in Europe
Short answer: Pay by card in cities, but carry some cash for traditional cafes, wine taverns and mountain huts. Check the ATM fee on screen before you confirm.
Contactless is standard in Vienna and in chains, but Austrians still like cash, and some traditional cafes, Heurigen wine taverns and alpine huts are cash only.
Will my card work?
Mostly. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Austria, though some small businesses are cash only.
Do I need cash?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Austria, but carry some cash for small places.
Local currency: Euro (EUR)
How does tipping work?
Round up or add 5-10%. Tell the server the total you want to pay rather than leaving money on the table.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Getting cash: ATMs
Some ATMs are fee-free
Most ATMs charge foreign cards €2-7.90 per withdrawal. Only a few banks are free.
Fee-free options
- BAWAG P.S.K., BKS Bank, Sparda-Bank and Apobank (reported free)
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- Ask "Karte?" before ordering in small places.
Frequently asked questions
Is Austria cashless?
Austria scores 72/100 on Cashlessy (mostly cashless), ranking #49 of 197 countries. Contactless is standard in Vienna and in chains, but Austrians still like cash, and some traditional cafes, Heurigen wine taverns and alpine huts are cash only.
Do I need cash in Austria?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Austria, but carry some cash for small places.
Are credit cards accepted in Austria?
Mostly. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Austria, though some small businesses are cash only.
Do you tip in Austria?
Round up or add 5-10%. Tell the server the total you want to pay rather than leaving money on the table.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Austria?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Austria.
Which ATMs are free in Austria?
Most ATMs charge foreign cards €2-7.90 per withdrawal. Only a few banks are free. Best options: BAWAG P.S.K., BKS Bank, Sparda-Bank and Apobank (reported free).
Compare with Europe
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.